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The Importance of Maintaining Electrolyte Balance
An electrolyte is any electrically conducive chemical substance within the body. There are five important electrolytes in the body:- sodium
- chloride
- potassium
- calcium
- magnesium
- diarrhea and sweating
- high fever
- blood pressure changes
- muscle spasms, disorders of the nervous system and changes in blood pressure result from irregular levels of magnesium, calcium, sodium, phosphate, bicarbonate or potassium
With the correct body water balance, the electrolytes separate into positive and negative ions. When the body loses water or becomes dehydrated an electrolyte imbalance starts to occur. During heavy exercise, sodium and potassium electrolytes in particular are lost through sweating. To ensure constant electrolyte concentrations in the body, fluids must be regularly consumed. To avoid an electrolyte imbalance which can cause lethargy and muscle twitching, athletes consume electrolyte solution drinks to make sure the electrolyte balance is maintained during and after exercise – this contributes to achieving optimum performance. Electrolyte Sports Drinks There are three types of sport drink which can be used to maintain a healthy electrolyte balance in the body at different stages of exercise and levels of endurance. Hypotonic Drinks Hypotonic drinks are dilute carbohydrate solutions rapidly absorbed by the body. Hypotonic drinks start the rehydration process and replenish carbohydrate energy reserves. Isotonic Drinks Isotonic Drinks are best used late on in the recovery process. They boost energy and encourage fluid uptake in the latter stages of rehydration. Isotonic drinks have a similar electrolyte composition to body fluid. Hypertonic Drinks Hypertonic drinks have a higher carbohydrate electrolyte concentration that the body’s own fluid and are best used during heavy periods of training to boost energy. Use a hypertonic drink when you anticipate high energy expenditure.
What is the best energy drink? I exercise alot and need more energy.
Is Gator Aid a good drink for potassium?
Thank you.
Hi Nancy. Gatorade is not the best source of potassium. A bottle of gatorade has 25mg of potassium while an 8oz glass of orange juice has 450 grams.